Multifunctional board and sailboat for helming lying down comprising the same

ABSTRACT

A sailboat, preferably with constrained sail, comprising a hull (22) extending along a main extension direction (X) with a lower surface (23), designated to be partly or fully submerged in water, and an upper surface (24), suitable to accommodate a helmsman (51) in a lying down position and having the head on the backrest (53, 27), a sail (55) fixed on a mast (54) along which axis (Z) extends, characterised in that said mast (54) is engaged in a support (56) directly fixed to the hull (22) and in that said hull (22) has—along the edges thereof, which extend along the axis (X), an ansa lunata (25) and an ansa lunata (26), respectively, each of which extend along the axis (Y).

The present invention refers to a multifunctional board (or multitaskingboard) having a particular design and shape, preferably said board is ofthe rigid and inflatable type and it was designed with an ansa lunatafor improving navigation stability and performance, which allowscarrying out sports or leisure activities at the sea or lake shore forall categories of people, including disabled people. Furthermore, thepresent invention refers to a sailboat for helming at a lying positioncomprising said board. According to an embodiment, a hull of such boardor such board comprises a support element or raised element, withrespect to the surface of the deck of the hull and positioned inproximity of the stern of the hull, preferably such support element orraised element obtaining at least one backrest or a chaise longue for ahelmsman or user of the board or boat.

The present invention also regards a sailboat in which the hullcomprises an element in form of a board. In particular, the inventionregards a sailboat that can be driven by the force of the wind, by meansof the aforementioned sail (preferably a constrained sail) or, possiblyusing the paddle.

The use of a board (floater), substantially flat and extended-shaped, toride the sea waves helping oneself also using a paddle, standing orseated has been known since time immemorial.

The invention of a surfboard for sea sports activities, which explodedin the 60s becoming a very popular sport, is more recent instead. Thesurf is a single-body board, at the beginning made of wood, which allowsto ride the waves. Surfers glide along the wall of the wave standing onthe board.

There is even a board called Stand Up Paddling (SUP). SUP boards have asingle-body structure, they are made in various models, and one or morefins are positioned on the bottom. The SUP board is provided: with astern, a bow and a deck on which the surfer rows standing, for exampleas an activity alternative to sailing when there is little wind. Thereare several models of Stand Up Paddling and they vary as a function ofthe sport one plans to engage in.

Windsurf officially dates back to 1967 from an idea of the Californianengineer, James R. Drake, who came up with the idea of potentiallysurfing even with the sea calm, simply by using a sail connected to theboard. A windsurf consists of a single-body board, at the beginning madeof wood, whereas glass fibre, Kevlar and carbon are the materials usednowadays. The length thereof may vary between 2.50 m and 4.00 m. Themast onto which the said is fitted is made of aluminium, carbon orfiberglass, the crucial part consists of the heel of the mast which isprovided with a joint with which it is fixed to the deck of the board.When the sail of the windsurf falls into the water, due to the fact thatthe heel of the mast is loose, the sail lies on the water; it is thenstraightened up using a recovery rope. The sail made of special lightand resistant material, is more or less large (3-11 m²) with or withoutbattens. The sail is controlled by an elliptical-shaped boom which isstably fixed to the mast, it is wielded by the user to manage the speedswhich are totally identical to those of a sailboat.

Lastly, a more recent board solution with sail is represented byKitesurfing or Kitesurf or more commonly referred to as “Kite”.Introduced in 1999, Kitesurfing is a sailing activity and it issubstantially a variant of surf; it consists in being dragged along by akite. Thus, the wind is the drive force, the kite incorporates a sort ofcontrol bar (bar), which acts on thin dyneema or spectra ropes (4-5)called “lines”, measuring between 22 m and 27 m in length connected tothe kite. The control bar is essential and characteristic for sailingthe kite in all activities it is engaged in, and developments.

Also known is the kayak which has a hull whose upper part is shaped toform a seat at times also provided with an element for supporting theback. In kayaks, the helmsman takes a sitting position with the legsstretched or slightly folded forward. This is not an always comfortableand relaxing position.

Lastly, just to point out some forms of sail navigation, in 1947 ClarkMills designed the Optimist which is a sailboat, with a rather strangedesign featuring a truncated bow which earned it the nickname “bathtub”.It is essentially a small shell, for example made of fiberglass, with areinforced mast hole for supporting the mast called “bench”. The sail(spanker) is single and trapezoid-shaped.

The solutions described above provide for the use of a board (floater),of the windsurf, windsup or kitesurf, require that they be utilised by auser (helmsman) who stays in an upright position (standing) on the boardand grips a sailing bar (called boom) or a control bar (called helm)fixed to the sail mast or to thin ropes. It is clear that the helming ofsaid floating boards with sail require a given level of skill andexperience so as to be properly utilised by people belonging to all agebrackets, even by those at their first steps in the activity.

The greater difficulties arise from the high instability of the boardscaused by the wind and by the waves which requires great coordination ofthe movements of the body thereof by the steersman so as to synchronise,staying upright (standing), the feet are at contact with the board andwith the hands gripping the boom or control bar.

Due to these reasons, said floating boards with sail (windsurf, windsupor kitesurf) are designated for professional or semi-professional sportsactivities, and in any case not for people at their first experiences.Furthermore, sports activities that can be carried out using floatingboards with sails depend a lot on the wind and the intensity thereof.Thus, while little wind or weak wind often complicates navigation, theybasically cannot be used in the absence of wind.

Thus, there arises the need to provide a board (floater) that can beused by adults, children, teenagers and disabled people alike andbelonging to all age brackets, even at their first steps in this kind ofsports activities, that is light, stable, amusing, and easy to manoeuvrein all wind conditions taking a safe, comfortable and relaxed position.

After a long and intense research and development, the Applicantdesigned a multifunctional board (or multitasking board) designated forall age brackets and that can be used by anyone, even without anyexperience, even by disable people, due to the fact that it is suitablefor many purposes. Furthermore, the Applicant manufactured a sailboatfor helming at a lying down or prone or supine position comprising saidmultifunctional floating board.

In particular, an object of the present invention refers to amultifunctional board (or multitasking board) having a particular designand shape so as to improve the navigation stability, sliding andperformance.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a multifunctionalboard (or multitasking board), preferably configured so as to beprovided with many adaptive accessories (such expression being used toindicate an accessory or means designed for disabled people), that iseasy to transport, easy to assemble, that is versatile in the usethereof, cost-effective and easy to manufacture.

A further object of the present invention refers to a sailboat thatcomprises said multifunctional board (or multitasking board) in whichthe user (steersman) takes a substantially lying down or prone or supineposition. Regarding this, according to an embodiment, a hull of suchboard or such board comprises a support element or raised element, withrespect to the surface of the deck of the hull and positioned inproximity of the stern of the hull, preferably such support element orraised element obtaining at least one backrest or a chaise longue for ahelmsman or user of the board or boat.

Yet another object of the present invention refers to a sailboat,preferably with constrained sail, comprising said multifunctional board(or multitasking board) in which the user (steersman) taking asubstantially lying down or prone or supine position can also helmand/or manoeuvre the boat under safe conditions and under all windconditions.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sailboat,preferably with constrained sail, that is easy to manoeuvre and helm sothat it is also suitable for use even by amateur sailors and thus withno or little experience.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a sailboat forhelming at a lying down or prone or supine position, comprising saidmultifunctional board (or multitasking board), that is easy totransport, assemble and that is versatile in use thereof.

These and other objects which will be apparent from the detaileddescription that follows are achieved by the present invention whichregards a multifunctional board (or multitasking board) and a sailboatfor helming at a lying down or prone or supine position comprising saidboard.

In the context of the present invention, the expression supine is usedto indicate a person lying on his/her back, also commonly referred to aswith the face upwards or lying with the back to the ground, while theexpression resupine is used to indicate a person lying with the facedownwards or prone.

A multifunctional board (or multitasking board) comprising a hull whichhas a volume suitably dimensioned and designed for the floating andtransversal stability, having the characteristics as outlined in theattached claims, forms an object of the present invention.

A sailboat for helming at a lying down position, having thecharacteristics as outlined in the attached claims, forms another objectof the present invention.

Further characteristics and details of the multifunctional board (ormultitasking board) and of the sailboat that incorporates it, bothsubject of the present invention, will be clearer from the followingdetailed description, provided by way of non-exhaustive example, as wellas from the attached drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a multifunctional board(or multitasking board);

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a multifunctionalboard (or multitasking board);

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a multifunctional board (or multitaskingboard);

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of a multifunctional board (or multitaskingboard);

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a sailboat for helming at a lying downor prone or supine position comprising a multifunctional board (ormultitasking board);

FIG. 6 refers to a detail element of the system for fixing the mastcontaining the sail directly with the hull;

FIG. 7 refers to a detail element of the system for fixing the mastcontaining the sail indirectly fixed or constrained with the hull, bymeans of a support structure;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a sailboat for helming at a lying downor prone or supine position comprising a multifunctional board (ormultitasking board);

FIG. 9 refers to a system for fixing a mast for windsup sailing,directly with the hull, by means of a fixing device;

FIG. 10A refers to an embodiment of a multifunctional board, preferablyfor snorkelling, and FIG. 10B refers to another embodiment of amultifunctional board (or multitasking board), in which the user lies onthe board in a supine position;

FIG. 11 refers to an embodiment of a multifunctional board (ormultitasking board) with windsup sail using the heel of the mast of FIG.9;

FIG. 12A refers to a multifunctional board (or multitasking board) inSUP (Sup Stand Up Paddle) version;

FIG. 12B refers to an embodiment of a multifunctional board (ormultitasking board) in the kayak version;

FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B refer to embodiments of a multifunctional board(or multitasking board) with adaptive accessories for the disabledaccording to various variants of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a sailboat according to an embodimentof the invention;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of the boat of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view B-B of the boat of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a longitudinal sectional view A-A of the boat of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the sailboat of the invention accordingto another variant of the invention;

FIG. 19 is a plan view of the boat of FIG. 18 partially disassembled;

FIG. 20 is a longitudinal sectional view C-C of the boat of FIG. 19;

FIGS. 21, 22 respectively illustrate a top perspective view and bottomperspective view of a support, according to a possible embodiment, in acondition disconnected from the respective multifunctional board (ormultitasking board). FIG. 21 clearly shows a mouth of the support seatat which the rotation of the mast or of the constrained sail is guided,while FIG. 22 shows a first means (in form of a threaded rod) for fixingthe support to a complementary fixing means of the board (for example alead screw);

FIGS. 23A and 23B refer to two embodiments of a multifunctional board(or multitasking board), respectively such as a diving support board,and as a supplementary board for rescuing bathers;

FIG. 24 shows a floating platform releasably connected to which is aplurality of multifunctional boards, according to any one of theembodiments addressed herein;

FIG. 25 shows a so-called “human sailer” according to an embodiment.

The multifunctional board (or multitasking board) 1 of FIG. 1 comprisesa hull 11 which in turn comprises an element called quickwork 12 whichis the submerged part of the hull 11 and an element called deadwork 13which is the dry portion of the hull 11 which includes the deck 14 too.The longitudinal extension direction (or axis) X (greater dimension ofthe hull) is reproduced too.

The multifunctional board (or multitasking board) 2 of FIG. 2 comprisesa hull 22 which in turn comprises an element called quickwork 23 whichis the submerged part of the hull 22 and an element called deadwork 24which is the dry portion of the hull 22 which includes the deck 15 too.The longitudinal extension direction X (greater dimension of the hull)and the transversal extension direction Y (smaller dimension of thehull) orthogonal to the longitudinal extension direction X is reproducedtoo. According to an embodiment, inserted into the deck of the board arelead screws 121, 123, 125, 126 which allows the assembly of at least oneheel of the mast and optionally of the accessories (adaptive) addressedfurther in detail hereinafter.

The multifunctional board (or multitasking board) 2 of FIG. 2 or of FIG.14 has a hull 22 characterised in that it has a profile that reproduces,for each outer edge of the hull, an ansa lunata 25 and 26 both of whichextend along the longitudinal extension direction X of the hull 22.

The ansa lunata 25 obtained on the lateral profile of the edge of thehull 22 is on the right side along the longitudinal extension axis X,while the ansa lunata 26 obtained on the lateral profile of the edge ofthe hull 22 is on the left side along the axis X.

According to an embodiment, the ansa lunata 25 and the ansa lunata 26are symmetrical to each other in a mirror-like fashion with respect to acentre-line plane M of the hull 22, the axis X preferably being housedin the centre-line plane M.

Advantageously, the presence of the two ansa lunata 25 and 26 along theprofile of the hull 22 allow to have an optimised, stable and moreperforming design/shape of the hull. This particular design/shape allowsto exploit the speed and length parameters. The floating line, designedwith a recess called “ansa lunata” which projects from the external ofthe profile of the edge of the hull along the transverse axis Y, allowsto increase the floating line—with respect to an equivalent board withexternal entirely identical (like that of FIG. 1)—with clear advantagein terms of performance. The ansa lunata 25 and the ansa lunata 26determine the smaller dimension of the hull along the extension axis Y.

As a matter of fact, the increase of the floating line, due to thepresence of the two ansa lunata 25 and 26 (which determine the smallerdistance of the hull along the extension axis Y), entails an increase ofthe theoretical advancement speed of the board 2 according to theformula Vm=1.35 v(L) where L is the floating length of the hull 22expressed in feet and Vm is the speed expressed in knots.

FIG. 3 shows a plan view of the multifunctional board (or multitaskingboard) 2 of FIG. 2 which comprises the hull 22 characterised by a firstansa lunata 25 and a second ansa lunata 26. Furthermore, FIG. 3 showsthe detail of the fluid threads 34 and 31 which flow through the profileof the ansa lunata 25 and 26 in the hull 22 and that of the fluidthreads 33 and 32 in laminar flow regime in case of the absence of ansalunata 25 and 26. Lastly, FIG. 3 also shows the meeting point “a” of thefluid threads 31 and 32. The ansa lunata 25 and 26 may also be obtainedwith various designs and shapes more or less extended and/or deep oraccentuated depending on the project needs, for example they can besemi-circular shaped (such as C-shaped more or less open or closed) orhalf ellipse (such as D-shaped more or less open or closed) or undulated(such as S-shaped more or less open or closed”).

According to another embodiment, one or both ansa lunata 25, 26 arearranged in a substantially central area 19 of the hull 22.

The presence of the two ansa lunata 25 and 26 also generates thefollowing further advantage. Basically, in the advancement direction ofthe hull 22 along the extension axis X, the fluid thread 33 flows in theopposite direction along the floating line. In this case the fluidthread 33 flows in laminar configuration (linear).

While, in the advancement direction of the hull 22 along the extensionaxis X, the fluid thread 34 flows in the opposite direction along theprofile of the ansa lunata 25. In this case, the fluid thread 34 musttraverse the entire profile of the ansa lunata 25 and, thus, the path ofthe fluid thread 34 is longer than the path of the fluid thread 33.

In this context, the fluid thread 34 must flow, with respect to thefluid 33, at a higher speed (and thus accelerate) so as to meet in point“a” with the fluid thread 33 which instead flows in laminarconfiguration at a lower speed in that it must travel a shorter a path(linear). The acceleration to which the fluid thread is subjected 34generates a vacuum and, thus, lesser resistance of the hull 22 along thelongitudinal extension direction X thus allowing the multifunctionalboard (or multitasking board) 2 a better and faster navigation.

Furthermore, the two ansa lunata 25 and 26 also have the advantage offacilitating the people using the board to stay astride, this beingparticularly important for example in the case of lifeguards engaged inrescue operations, they allow more comfort when climbing onboard fromthe water and they also allow people faced with mobility challenges toclimb more easily.

Preferably, the multifunctional board (or multitasking board) 2 of FIG.2 or of FIG. 14 also comprises a support element 16 or raised element27, for example in form of a pillow (or backrest) 28, with respect tothe surface of the deck 15 of the hull 22, positioned at the stern ofhull 22. The support element 16 or the raised element 27 allows thehelmsman of the multifunctional board to comfortably stay in the lyingdown or prone or supine position thus allowing him/her navigation andmanoeuvre. The support element 16 or raised element 27, for example inform of a pillow 28, preferably can be made of material for example suchas ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or it can be made of rigid material oran inflatable air chamber.

According to an embodiment, the support element 16 or raised element 27obtains a headrest for the helmsman or user 51. According to suchembodiment, such element 16, 27 has a longitudinal direction extensionsuch to provide a support in raised position at least for the head, andpreferably for the head and for at least part of the neck, of thehelmsman 51.

According to another embodiment, the support element 16 or raisedelement 27 obtains at least one backrest (or a chaise longue) for thehelmsman or user 51. In such embodiment, the element 16, 27 has alongitudinal direction extension (upper with respect to the headrest),such to provide a support in raised position for the head, for the neckand for at least part of the back, of the helmsman 51.

In an embodiment, the support element 16 or raised element 27 can be anintegral part of the hull, such as for example in the case of FIG. 1where the support 16 or raised 27 element, for example in form of apillow, is a single element with the hull 11. Alternatively, the supportor raised element can be an element that can be mounted, positioned andadjusted if need be by means of special fixing or adjustment means.

In this case, the support or raised element can also be removed from thehull. For example, FIG. 2 shows a support 16 or raised 27 element,shaped to form a pillow 28, which is mounted, positioned and adjusted bymeans of special fixing and adjustment means 230, 231 and 232.

The multifunctional floating board (or multitasking board) 1 or 2 of thepresent invention can preferably be made of suitable flexible materialbased on the prior art of the inflatable boards. The hulls 11 and 22 ofthe boards 1 and 2 can be of the rigid or inflatable type. They may alsobe made of other rigid materials, or consisting of singularly airtightrigid pieces that can be joined by means of two special quick couplings.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the board 2 comprising the hull 22.The hull of the present invention may comprise one or more elements (forexample one or two) fixed or movable, but integrally joined to the hull,like one or more centre boards (or fins) positioned on the quickworkalong the longitudinal extension direction X. Basically, obtained on thequickwork 12 of the hull 22 are preferably one or more centre boards,i.e. vertical or longitudinal appendages that protrude from the hull 22,i.e. fins 45 and 46 of various shapes and dimensions. The centre boardsare an integral part of the shape and the water lines of the board 2 andof the hull 22.

According to an embodiment, at least one centre board 45, 46 (or fin) isremovably fixed to the hull. Preferably, at least one centre board (fin)45, 46 could be forcedly coupled or screwed to the hull 22.

Preferably, there is the possibility of quickly fitting and fixing a fin45 into the slot 45 a astern which mainly serves for activities such asSUP, while the central slot 46 a serves for housing a keel 46 when theboard 2 of the present invention is equipped for sailing.

Preferably, a centre board (45 or 46) is conformed and conceived so asto be alternatively insertable into the slot 45 a astern or in thecentral slot 46 a. In such manner, the present board may comprise asingle fin/keel which, even as a function of the hydrodynamiccharacteristics thereof, can carry out at least one double function (inparticular: SUP and sailing).

Preferably, along the edge of the hull or in positions adjacent theretoor in other positions of the deck 14 of the hull 11 or of the deck 15 ofthe hull 22, along the longitudinal extension direction X, there arepresent closed or open elements (at least two elements, one juxtaposedto the other, or four elements two juxtaposed to the other two, or sixelements three juxtaposed to the other three) shaped to form an open orclosed handle fixed onto the hull, to facilitate the helming, climbingon board, rescuing people, gripping if need be and safety in general.

For example, FIG. 1 shows six closed elements (three juxtaposed to theother three arranged along the longitudinal extension direction X) inform of closed handle (semi-circle) indicated with 110, 111, 112, 113,114 and 115 but they can be mounted more or fewer depending on the typeof board. While for example, FIG. 2 shows six closed elements (threejuxtaposed to the other three arranged along the longitudinal extensiondirection X) in form of closed handle (semi-circle) indicated with 221,222, 223, 224, 225 and 226, but they can be mounted more or fewerdepending on the type of board in this case too.

Though not shown, in an embodiment even the board 2 according to any oneof the embodiments subject of FIGS. 14 and 20 could be provided with theclosed or open elements addressed in the previous paragraphs.

The deck 14 of the hull 11 and the deck 15 of the hull 22 can alsocomprise a plurality of fixing means of various shapes (for examplecircular, square and rectangular) such as for example special insertsfor example of the female lead type, as structural elements. In anembodiment, said fixing elements are for example obtained by means ofeyelets or slots made of metal for example stainless steel suitablyarranged along the deck 14 or 15. In this manner, said fixing meansconstitute the base for the coupling and support of the accessories suchas for example the fixing means 127 for fixing the handle of the mast42, the fixing means 125 or 126 for fixing the mast holder socket 56,the fixing means 230, 231 and 232 for fixing the pillow 28 or anaquascope holder 700.

Furthermore, the deck 14 or 15 may provide for positioning small belts(557; shown for example in FIG. 19) for fixing and fastening possibleaccessories such as oars, underwater fishing gun, torches and bottles,and/or for keeping the hull 22 joined with a respective hiking stick 550(see hereinafter as concerns this).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a sailboat thatis easy to make, easy to helm, manoeuvre, mount as well as inexpensiveto produce.

Thus, a sailboat for helming at a lying down or prone or supine positioncomprising the multifunctional floating board (or multitasking board) ofthe present invention, forms an object of the present invention.

FIG. 5 or FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the sailboat 50 subject ofthe present invention. The sailboat may comprise the multifunctionalboard (or multitasking board) 1 or 2. In a preferred embodiment, thesailboat 50 comprises the multifunctional board 2 which comprises a hull22 which has a lower surface 23, typically partially or fully submergedin the water called quickwork (which is the submerged part of the hull),and an upper surface 24 (called deadwork which is the dry portion of thehull which includes the deck) suitable to house at least the bust, andpreferably also the head, of a person 51 (helmsman) in a lying down orprone or supine position.

The hull 22 has a bow 52 and a stern 53, the deck 15 may also have anergonomic shape variously designed and integrated in the deck, this tofacilitate the right posture of the muscle-skeleton system of thesteersman 51, who will have to manage the navigation and manoeuvresstaying at a lying (supine) position on the board (hull).

The hull 22 is substantially flat-shaped and extended along a mainextension direction X.

According to the invention, the user 51 (helmsman) may positionhim/herself with the head at an end of hull, the stern 53 in this case.Preferably, said stern 53 is tapered and slightly raised (supportelement 16 or raised element 27 forming a single body with the hull) orit may comprise a support element or raised element such as for examplea pillow 28 (movable support or raised element that can be mounted,positioned and adjusted). In this manner, the user who has taken a lyingdown or prone or supine position, remains slightly raised allowinghim/her a better view during navigation and manoeuvre.

According to the invention, the boat 50 comprises a mast 54 fixed onwhich is a sail (preferably a constrained sail) 55. The mast 54 or thesail 55 may rotate, with respect to the hull 22, around the rotationaxis Z thereof, such axis Z preferably extending parallel to the mast54. Said rotation axis Z is, preferably, substantially vertical withrespect to the floating of the hull under calm weather conditions.Furthermore, said rotation axis Z may preferably lie in an appropriateposition along the extension axis X (basically in the line orcentre-line plane M of the hull 22 (shown for example in FIG. 3 and inFIG. 16)).

According to an aspect of the invention, the sail is supported by a mastor by any other rigid support structure, which rests on a supportdirectly fixed to the hull (first embodiment) or indirectly to the hullby means of a support structure 540 (second embodiment).

In a first embodiment (for example see FIG. 6 or FIG. 8), the support,for example socket-shaped, is directly integrally joined to the hull andit is shaped in a manner such that the point of rotation of the sail,preferably a constrained sail, is substantially equivalent to the uppersurface (deck) of the hull. The sail (preferably a constrained sail)rotates on the axis Z thereof, but it does not take a parallel positionwith respect to the floating line due to the fact that a heel of themast does not provide for an articulatable element or articulation atthe lower end thereof. Basically, the mast that supports the sail isconstrained to the board in a manner such not to allow the sail tocollapse or fall into the water. In this first embodiment, in which thesupport is directly connected to the hull, the sail supported by themast is at a distance from the deck of the hull such to be above thebody of the user 51 (helmsman) when the latter is lying on the hull in alying down or prone or supine position. In this manner, the entirety oralmost the entirety of the hull can thus be exploited to house the bodyof the user.

FIG. 6 shows a detail element regarding the support. In FIG. 6 thesupport 56 is socket-shaped with the opening towards the direction ofthe axis Z and with the foot connected directly integrally on the deckof the hull.

FIGS. 21, 22 show further details of the support—only schematised inFIG. 6—in a condition where it is disconnected or removed from themultifunctional board (or multitasking board).

The hull is configured in a manner such to receive the base of thesocket 56 so that the point of rotation of the constrained sail issubstantially equal to the surface (deck 14) of the hull. The sailrotates on the axis Z, but it cannot take a parallel position withrespect to the floating plane due to the fact that the heel of the mastor the support do not provide for an articulatable element orarticulation at the lower end thereof. Basically, the heel of the mast54 that supports the sail is in a manner such not to allow the sail tocollapse or fall into the water. In this embodiment in which the support56 is directly connected to the hull, for example on the deck 14 of thehull 1 or on the deck 15 of the hull 2, the sail 55 supported by themast 54 is at a distance from the deck of the hull so that it can beabove the body of the user 51 (helmsman) when the latter is positionedon the hull lying down or supine (FIG. 5 and FIG. 8). In this manner,the entire or almost the entire upper surface of the hull (deck 14) canthus be used for housing the body of the user 51.

According to a second aspect of the invention (for example see FIG. 5 orFIG. 16), the sail is supported by a mast 54, or by another rigidsupport structure, which rests on a support 56. In an embodiment thesupport 56 is in this case connected to or is part of a supportstructure 540 which, in turn, is integrally fixed with the hull. In thiscase the mast is fixed to the hull by means of the support structure 540which comprises the support 56.

The support 56 can be an integral part of the support structure 540, orit can be mounted on an element which is in turn connected to saidsupport structure 540. The support structure 540 may be obtained inrigid form, for example in a single piece (rigid support structure; forexample see FIG. 14), or it may comprise one or more portions movablewith respect to each other which—together—create said support structure540 (movable support structure; for example see FIG. 5 or FIG. 7)suitable to receive the mast.

The support 56 arranged on the support structure 540 is shaped in amanner such that the point of rotation of the constrained sail) israised with respect to the upper surface (deck) of the hull thanks tothe presence of said support structure 540. The sail rotates on the axisZ, but it cannot take a parallel position with respect to the floatingplane due to the fact that the mast (or the support arranged on thesupport structure) does not provide for an articulatable element orarticulation at the lower end thereof. Basically, the heel of the mastis made in a manner such not to allow the sail to collapse on the water.

FIG. 7 shows a detail element regarding the support structure 540. InFIG. 7 the support 56 is socket-shaped (suitable to receive the mast 54)with the opening facing towards the direction of the axis Z and with thefoot connected to an element 61 which is in turn part of the supportstructure 540. The support structure 540 slidably connects the mast 54onto the deck of the hull of the multifunctional board (or multitaskingboard) by means of some movable portions connected to each other bymeans pf joining elements. The support structure 540 may for examplecomprise the element 61 that is connected with the element 62, by meansof the joining element 63. The element 62 is connected with the element64, by means of the joining element 65. The element 64 is connected tothe element 66, by means of the joining element 67. The supportstructure 540 is integrally fixed to the hull through the element 66 bymeans of fixing means 68 and 69. In the shown embodiment, the fixingmeans 68, 69 (for example screws) are partly received in the thicknessof the hull.

The support structure 540 is shaped in a manner such to maintain thepoint of rotation at a distance D (FIG. 7 or FIG. 16) from the hull soas to be above the body of the user (helmsman) when the latter ispositioned lying down or prone or supine on the hull. In this manner,the entirety or almost the entirety of the hull can thus be exploited tohouse the body of the user.

The distance between said point of rotation, i.e. the lower point of thesail (FIG. 5), and the upper surface (deck) of the hull 2 is such toallow to easily house the bust of the user (helmsman) 51. Said distanceD is typically comprised for example between 20 cm and 60 cm, morepreferably between 25 cm and 45 cm. According to said first and secondobject of the invention, by taking the lying down or prone or supineposition the user (helmsman) can navigate and manoeuvre the sailsupported on the mast, both as represented in FIG. 5 and FIG. 8, withthe arms thereof stretched upwards to directly grip the sail or a partthereof.

The rotation of the sail with respect to the support 56 is obtainedthrough known connection means. For example, the support may comprise ahousing (not shown) rotatably and non-rotatably housed in which is thelower end of the mast. Bearing means may possible be interposed betweenthe parts so as to reduce friction and facilitate the rotation.

The boat subject of the present invention has the sail constrained to amast which is in turn directly inserted into the deck of a board likethe one described above. Some substantial differences, with respect tothe prior art, lie in the fact that the navigation and the manoeuvre arecarried out with the user (helmsman) in lying down or prone or supineposition having at least one part of the back resting on the deck of thehull and in the fact that the mast on which the sail (constrained sail)is fixed does not collapse into the water due to the fact that the mastis not articulated at the point of contact with the deck of the hull.

The sailboat for helming and manoeuvring lying down subject of thepresent invention offers numerous advantages, the main of which beingnot lowering the steersman when passing the foot of the sail 70, in thathelming occurs in a lying (supine) position.

This sporting or sailing activity, is called Flosailing. As a sport, inflosailing the steersman is called trimmer (user) and he/she will notneed to be particularly skilled to helm and adjust the sail. The trimmerwill almost instinctively determine the angle of the sail that willallow him/her to travel at the desired speed (FIG. 5). The trimmer willdetermine the angle of the sail during navigation by simply taking alying down or prone or supine position and manoeuvring the sailsupported on the mast with the hands thereof stretched upwards todirectly grip the sail or a part thereof (FIG. 5). The trimmer willadjust the sail (angle with respect to the wind) by means of a mainsheet 71 spliced in the angle on the clew. Constantly the main sheet inthe hand thereof, technically referred to as current manoeuvre, thetrimmer will ease and haul aft the main sheet so as to adjust the angleon the bow which will be ideally formed with the direction of the wind.In the manoeuvres thereof (turning and gybe) the trimmer will use thefeet and hands thereof as if they were helms.

As mentioned, the sailboat subject of the present invention has asailing configuration in which the heel of the mast is directly insertedinto the deck of the board, by means of a socket-like element or bymeans of a curved profile or with special mechanical solutions thatallow the mast to remain vertically constrained to the board. The boardpreferably has an ansa lunata on the two lateral parts of the hull.Furthermore, obtained on the quickwork of the board are one or morecentre boards, i.e. longitudinal appendages, or pins of various shapesand sizes; the centre boards or fins are an integral part of the shapeand water lines of the board (hull). The centre boards, suitablydesigned, have the function of contrasting the sideslipping of the boatdue to the wind.

The boat comprises a mast onto which the sail is fixed. The mast can bevariously designed, made of different materials (composite, aluminiumetc) or of the inflatable type to facilitate transportation. The heightof the mast varies as a function of the size of the sail, which dependson the length of the board, and on the presumable size of the steersman.

The sail is luffed to the mast using various techniques and it isnormally provided with one or more battens; just like all sails, it ischaracterised by the luff, by the leech and by the foot. The shape ofthe sail, the angle of the mast with respect to the hull and the shapeof the sail is the fruit of a specific study and design whose sailingefficiency is aimed at helming at a lying or sitting position.

A main sheet is spliced to the clew of the sail, the other end of themain sheet is fastened against an eye bolt, arranged at the end stern,using a snap shackle. The length of the main sheet is functional to theopening of the sail same case applying to the stern wind. Should onelose grip on the main sheet, when helming (navigating) or manoeuvring,it serves as a guy. This technical solution is also a safety measure inthat the sail always maintains the undeployed and the steersman canrecover the main sheet through a simple gesture still in lying down orprone or supine position. The heel of the mast of the constrained sailcan be fixed using two technical solutions.

A first embodiment provides for the use of a sort of handlebar (alsocalled “brace” in this description), which is suitably folded to form aC-shape, the lower part is integrally joined (connected) with the boar(hull) by means of fixing means such as designated lead screws or otherappropriate joining technological solutions. The support structure orhandlebar, preferably made of steel, can also be made of other metals orcomposite materials. It is an actual fixed manoeuvre, provided with asocket or mast hole where the heel of the mast is inserted. The supportstructure or handlebar can be positioned at the centre of the hull sothat the helmsman can place one leg to the right and one to the leftwith respect to said structure (in this case the support structure isbetween the legs of the steersman or trimmer).

A second embodiment provides for the use of a support 21 and 22 forexample shaped to form a socket, preferably made of aluminium orstainless steel. The socket is directly fixed to the hull using fixingmeans, for example it is screwed to the hull using lead screws providedon the deck of the multifunctional board (or multitasking board).

According to a possible embodiment the board, and boat that comprisesit, can be a hull with a length, in the longitudinal extension directionX, preferably comprised between 50 and 350 cm.

The hull can be made of various suitable materials well-known in theindustry, such as for example composite materials, such as glass fibre,carbon fibre, Kevlar© or the like, or thermoplastic materials or evenfoamed polymer material or combination of the aforementioned materials.Alternatively, the hull can also be made of wood or preferably ofinflatable flexible material.

According to a preferred embodiment, the support according to theembodiment described above, can consist of two or more parts movablewith respect to each other to vary, in particular, the height of thesupport and, thus, the height of the mast, with respect to the helmsman;thus, the orientation and inclination of the mast with respect to thehelmsman who may pull the mast, and thus the sail, towards or away fromhimself/herself for a better helming and manoeuvring the boat.

Thus, according to an aspect of the invention the support of the sailcan be adjustable height-wise. This allows varying at least the distancebetween the point of rotation of the sail and the upper surface of thehull. In this manner, the space between the support and the hull, wherethe bust of the person is positioned and the distance of the sail fromthe upper surface of the hull can be adapted. This allows people ofdifferent size and/or height, and thus with arms of different length torespectively take position on the hull and manoeuvre said sail in apractical and easy manner.

The support can possibly be adjusted so as to vary the position of therotation axis moving it forward or backward along the longitudinalextension direction of the hull. Possibly, said support can also beadjusted to vary the position of the rotation axis with respect to thecentre-line of the hull; in any case, the mast cannot fall into thewater.

According to a possible embodiment, previously mentioned, said supportcontained in the support structure comprises a handlebar or brace forexample C- or U-shaped lying on one side or J-shaped lying on theshorter portion. The brace extends substantially upwards on a centralpart of the deck positioned along the extension axis or off-centred withrespect to the centre-line thereof towards the edge of the hull.

Preferably said brace is typically curved. Otherwise, as mentioned abovethe brace may be shaped to form an overturned L with a first portionextending in a parallel direction along the extension axis of the uppersurface of the hull, and a second portion, arranged substantiallyorthogonal to said upper surface, which extends upwards. Said portionscan possibly be connected to each other using one or more intermediatestraight or curved portions.

The brace can be obtained as a single element or consist of severalparts integrally joined to each other or, for example if adjustable,several parts with mutual degrees of freedom. The brace can be made of ametal or a metal alloy or composite materials that offer high mechanicalstrength, such as carbon fibre, Kevlar© or the like. The brace can befixed to the hull in various manners for example by means of screws,nails, rivets or the like or by gluing.

According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the brace may comprisea further coupling portion which extends from a lower end towards thecentreline of the hull. In this configuration the brace is typicallysubstantially C-shaped. Said coupling portion is preferably fixed ontothe deck or housed in a seat obtained in the hull, extending along aparallel direction with respect to the longitudinal extension direction.

In this manner, the stresses that the support receives from the sail,are in turn discharged onto the hull on an extended surface. Suchsolution allows avoiding the creation of reinforcements in the hull, asit instead occurs in boats of the prior art, thus simplifying theconstruction thereof.

According to a preferred variant, the sail comprises a rigid structure,for example a frame or the like, suitable to keep the sail spread. Saidrigid structure is typically integrally joined to the mast.

According to the invention, the sail can substantially be shaped to forma quadrilateral whose lower edge faces towards the user who is in alying of supine position on the deck of the hull. Preferably said loweredge, starting from the rotation axis, i.e. From the mast, is inclinedupwards by an angle comprised between 0° and 50°, more preferablybetween 20° and 40°, even more preferably between 25° and 35° withrespect to a horizontal plane.

Basically, said hull, at the base, has a shape with two external edgesalong the linear extension axis X or with two external edges along theextension axis X shaped to form an ansa lunata.

According to an aspect of the invention, even the upper surface of thehull has an anatomic shape which substantially follows the curvature ofthe backbone of the user (helmsman).

In a preferred embodiment the sailboat for helming at a lying downposition also has a console equipped with instruments suitable toprovide information useful for navigation to the helmsman such as forexample the speed of the wind, depth and weather conditions. The consolecan be power-supplied by means of sources of energy such as anaccumulator or battery and even a small solar panel mounted on the upperend of the mast or on the hull.

An embodiment of a multifunctional board (or multitasking board) subjectof the present invention is shown in FIG. 10A. In this case themultifunctional board is designed for mounting astern an acquascope 806.This allows doing snorkelling activities. In the embodiment of FIG. 108,the user is lying in a supine position on the board instead.

An embodiment of a multifunctional board (or multitasking board) subjectof the present invention is shown in FIG. 11. In this case the board canalso be equipped with a sail of the windsup type entirely similar tothose used for windsurf. The mast of the sail will be inserted into thedeck of the board by means of a special heel of the mast of FIG. 9 fixedto a lead screw of the deck 121, 123. The use of a fin or verticalcentreboard to be inserted into the slot is provided for windsupactivities.

An embodiment of a multifunctional board (or multitasking board) subjectof the present invention is shown in FIG. 12A. In this case themultifunctional board (or multitasking board) becomes an SUP (Stand uppaddle) simply by using a special oar 810; for this type of activity itis sufficient to use astern fin and the slot is already provided for inthe multifunctional board (or multitasking board).

In the embodiment of FIG. 12B, the board with the special accessories(seat, footrest and oar) becomes a kayak.

An embodiment of a multifunctional board (or multitasking board) subjectof the present invention is shown in FIG. 13 provided with an adaptiveaccessory subject of painstaking research. In this case the board issuitable for various water activities meant for the disabled engaged insports-therapy activities, where the disabled person ormobility-challenged person reacquires emotional energy. The boardprovides for quadrilateral handgrip support (for example see FIG. 13A)or in form of a variable height handrail (adaptive handgrip; for examplesee FIG. 13B) which will facilitate the disabled person in the movementsthereof along the deck of the hull or for climbing on board the boardfrom the water. According to this second adaptive embodiment, it shouldbe observed that the shape of the variable-height handrail (“seat-like”so to speak) allows to position the pubis of the user (for example adisabled person) for greater stability.

Other two embodiments are shown in FIG. 23A and in FIG. 23B. In suchembodiments, the board serves as a support raft for diving, or as anauxiliary board for rescuing bathers (for example being provided with atleast one life belt or harness 814, preferably at least partiallyelastic).

Preferably, the embodiment of FIG. 23B comprises at least one pair oflife belt 814 fixed at the bow, and which diverge towards the fixingpoints arranged at the external edges. The idea of then harness isunique, given that the with a simple gesture the lifeguard is able tofasten the person in danger, by passing the elastic strap underneath thearmpits.

The invention has been described by way of non-limiting example,according to some preferred embodiments.

As regards some possible modes of use of the present boat 50 accordingto any one of the embodiments described herein, and the multifunctionalboard illustrated in this description, the following uses are providedfor:

-   -   sailing activities both in form of a constrained sail and        windsup;    -   activities with the use of a paddle such as stand up paddle        (SUP) and kayak;    -   as a game or hobby;    -   for snorkelling activities, seabed exploration activities or        underwater hunting activities;    -   relax activities, like floating mattress;    -   for rehabilitation activities in water, for example for the        disabled people or for mobility-challenged people;    -   for underwater activities, for example as a support bridge for        scuba divers;        and/or    -   sea or maritime rescue and patrol of water spaces.

The man skilled in the art may find other numerous embodiments andvariants, all falling within the scope of protection outlined by theclaims that follow.

The present invention also comprises the following embodiments.

A sail board (preferably with constrained sail) comprising amultifunctional board (or multitasking board) and a sail forms an objectof the present invention;

-   -   said board comprises a hull 22 which extends along a main        extension direction X with a lower surface 23, designated to be        partly or fully submerged in water, and an upper surface 24,        suitable to accommodate a helmsman 51 in a lying down position        and having the head in proximity of the stern 53;    -   said sail 55 is fully or partly fixed on a mast 54 along which        the axis Z extends;        characterised in that    -   said mast 54 is engaged in a support 56 directly fixed to the        hull 22, and in that    -   said hull 22 has —along the two edges thereof, which extend        along the axis X—an ansa lunata 25 and an ansa lunata 26,        respectively, each extending along the axis Y.

Preferably, said sailboat 50 provides for a support 56 which allows saidmast 54, on which the sail 55 is fixed, to rotate with respect to thehull 22.

Preferably, said sailboat 50 provides for that said helmsman 51 cannavigate and manoeuvre the boat while in a lying down position.

Preferably, said sailboat 50 provides for that the hull 22 comprises asupport element 16 or a raised element 27, with respect to the surfaceof the deck 15 of the hull 22 and positioned in proximity of the stern53 of the hull 22.

Preferably, said sailboat 50 provides for that said support element 16or raised element 27, preferably a pillow 28, allows the helmsman 51 tostay in a lying down or prone or supine position during the navigationand manoeuvre.

Preferably, said sailboat 50 provides for that the support element 16 orraised element 27 can be an integral part of the hull 22 and form asingle element with the hull; or, alternatively, said support element orraised element can be an element that can be mounted, positioned andadjusted at will by means of special fixing and adjustment means 230,231 and 232 located in proximity of the stern 53.

Preferably, said sailboat 50 provides for that along the hull 22 or inpositions adjacent thereto of the deck 15 of the hull 22, along theextension direction X, there be present some gripping elements, closedor open, in form of open or closed handle fixed on the hull, tofacilitate helming, climbing on board, rescuing people, gripping if needbe and safety in general.

Forming an object of the present invention is a multifunctional board ormultitasking board comprising a hull 22 extending along a main extensiondirection X with a lower surface (23), designated to be partly or fullysubmerged in water, and an upper surface 24, suitable to accommodate ahelmsman 51, characterised in that said hull 22 has—along the two edgesthereof, extending along the axis (X)—an ansa lunata 25 and an ansalunata 26, respectively, each of which extends along the axis Y.

Preferably, said multifunctional board (or multitasking board) providesfor that said hull 22 comprises a support element 16 or raised element17, with respect to the surface of the deck 15 of the hull 22, which ispositioned in proximity of the stern 53 of the hull 22; said support orraised element, preferably a pillow 28, is an integral part of the hull22 and forms a single element with the hull; or, alternatively, it canbe an element that can be mounted, positioned and adjusted at will usingspecial fixing and adjustment means 230, 231 and 232 located inproximity of the stern 53.

Preferably, said multifunctional board (or multitasking board) providesfor that along the edge of the hull 22 or in positions adjacent theretoof the deck 15 of the hull 22, along the extension direction X, there bepresent some gripping elements, closed or open, in form of open orclosed handle fixed on the hull, to facilitate helming, climbing onboard, rescuing people, gripping if need be and safety in general.

The aforementioned objectives are also achieved by means of a boat, asdescribed hereinafter. It should be observed that, with respect to thedescription and the embodiments outlined above, identical referencenumbers will correspond to identical or equivalent components ortechnical characteristics.

The sailboat 50, indicated in its entirety with 50, comprises a hull 22and a sail 55.

The hull 22 extends length-wise along an axis X which, in the example inthe figure, is aligned with the (or arranged in the) centre-line planeM. The outer shape of the hull 22 is, preferably, symmetrical withrespect to said centre-line plane M and extension axis X.

According to a preferred variant, the hull 22 comprises a substantiallyflat board 1, 2.

The board 1, 2 has a lower surface 23 normally at least partiallysubmerged in water, and an upper surface 24 which, typically, remainsuncovered.

As mentioned above, the upper surface 24 is suitable to accommodate abust of a person lying in supine position. For a greater comfort of theperson, such upper surface 24 has an undulated profile or a profile thatsubstantially reproduces the curvature of the backbone.

At the bow 52, the hull, or the board 1, 2, is slightly raised. On theupper surface 24, at said bow 52, there is present a support element 16or a raised element 27, projecting, suitable to support the head of theperson in the area between the neck and the nape.

The lower surface 23 is instead preferably flat.

According to a preferred variant, the hull 22, at the base, has a shapethat approximately reproduces the shape of a human bust, head included,as observable in FIG. 15 or in FIG. 3.

According to a first embodiment (for example see FIG. 15), the bow 52,has a tapered profile towards the end of the hull. From the bow 52towards the stern 53, the section of the hull 22 widens in a highcentral area, where the shoulders of the person rest, it narrows at alow central area 19, where the bust of the person rests at the height ofthe waist, and it widens once again at the area of the stern 53, wherethe hip of the person rests.

According to second embodiment (for example see FIG. 3), the bow 52, hasa tapered profile towards the end of the hull. From the bow 52 towardsthe stern 53, the section of the hull 22 narrows at a high central area,where the legs of the person rest, it narrows at a low central area 19,where the bust of the person at the height of the waist rests, and itwidens once again at the area of the stern 53, where the shoulders andthe head of the person rest.

The sail 55 is connected to the hull 22 by means of a support, indicatedin its entirety with 56. Said support 56 allows the sail to rotatearound an axis Z substantially perpendicular to the lower surface 23 ofthe board 1, 2.

As mentioned previously, the support 56 is connected to or is part of asupport structure 540 which, in turn, is integrally fixed with the hull.Preferably, the mast is fixed to the hull by means of the supportstructure 540 which comprises the support 56.

The sail 55 is connected to the support 56 in a point of rotation Rarranged at a distance D from the upper surface 24 of the hull,preferably by means of the support structure 540.

The sail 55 is generally supported by a mast 54 aligned with (preferablyparallel to) said rotation axis Z.

In the embodiment illustrated in the FIG. 7, the support structure 540comprises the support 56 and comprises a brace which extends from anarea of the board 1, 2 arranged in the centre-line plane M. Said braceif preferably C-shaped with a first portion which comprises a firstportion which extends in a longitudinal direction and substantiallyperpendicular to the upper surface 24 of the hull, and a second portion,arranged substantially parallel to said upper surface 24. The twoportions are preferably connected by a curved section.

The brace 42 may however be differently shaped, for example it can becompletely curved or comprise a straight portion obliquely extendingtowards the centre-line of the hull 22.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 16, the brace 42 is obtained as asingle piece with said coupling portion 43.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the brace may however comprise severalparts which can slide and/or rotate with respect to each other to varythe distance D between the point of rotation R and the upper surface 24or possibly, or additionally, also the position of the rotation axis Zalong the extension direction X.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the sail 55 comprises arigid support structure 532 integrally joined with the main mast 54.According to a preferred variant, the sail 55 is polygonal-shaped,preferably quadrilateral-shaped.

The lower edge 70 of the sail 55 is the one arranged horizontalsubstantially parallel to the lower surface 23 of the hull. At saidlower edge 70 the sail is equipped with two manoeuvre bars 34 arched inform of a boom.

Said manoeuvre bars 54 are preferably connected to the mast and possiblyto the support structure 532.

In the variant illustrated in FIGS. 18 to 20, the hull 22 is equippedwith a hiking stick 550, that can be fixed at the stern 53. Such hikingstick 550 allows to support, and keep the legs of the user out of watertoo.

In the illustrated variant, said hiking 550 comprises a substantiallyflat board 551 preferably having a thickness identical or similar tothat of the board 1, 2 of the hull 22. In this manner, the upper surface552 of the hiking stick is connected and continuous with the uppersurface 24 of the hull 22. The extension direction X of the hiking stick550 is parallel and coincident with that of the hull 22.

In order to keep the two parts, hull 22 and hiking stick 550, joinedpreferably provided for are fixing means 557, such as belts, laces orthe like.

The hull 22 and the hiking stick 550 are preferably made of a plasticmaterial, typically a thermoplastic polymer or a composite material.Such means are obtained in form of a shell whose internal volume can beempty or filled with foamed material.

The support 56 or the support structure 540 is instead preferably madeof a metal, for example aluminium or its alloys, or it is also made of acomposite material such as carbon fibre.

Preferred embodiments En of the present invention are indicated below:

E1. A sailboat 50, comprising:

-   -   a hull 22 extending along an extension direction X with a lower        surface 23, designated to be fully or partly or fully submerged        in water, and an upper surface 24, suitable to accommodate at        least the bust of a person in a lying down position;    -   a sail 55 rotatable with respect to the hull 22 around an axis        Z;    -   a support 56, connected to the hull 22, suitable to support said        sail 55;        wherein said support 56 is shaped in a manner such to keep the        point of rotation R of the sail 55 raised with respect to the        upper surface 24 of the hull so that between said upper surface        24 and said point of rotation R there can be housed the bust of        the person in the aforementioned lying down position.

E2. The boat according to E1, characterised in that said support 56 ofthe sail 55 can be adjusted so as to vary the distance D between thepoint of rotation R and the upper surface 24 of the hull 22.

E3. The boat according to E1 or E2, characterised in that said support56 of the sail 55 can be adjusted so as to vary the position of therotation axis Z advancing it or receding it along the extensiondirection X of the hull.

E4. The boat according to any one of E1-E3, characterised in that saidsupport 56 comprises an arm 42 which extends from one lateral edge ofthe hull 22 towards the centre-line of the same.

E5. The boat according to E4, characterised in that the brace 42comprises one or more parts that can slide or rotate with respect toeach other and carry out both movements

E6. The boat according to any one of E1-E5, characterised in that thesail 55, at a lower edge 70 faced towards the person lying down, hasmanoeuvring means 34 comprising at least one manoeuvre bar, integrallyjoined in rotation to the sail and arranged substantially aligned withsaid lower edge 70, said manoeuvre bar 34 being suitable to be grippedby the person the aforementioned lying down position to rotate the sail55 around the rotation axis Z.

E7. The boat according to any one of E1-E6, characterised in that, thehull 22—at the base—has a tapering at the bow 52 and a narrowing in thecentral area or part 19.

E8. The boat according to any one of E1-E7, characterised in that itcomprises a hiking stick 550 that can be connected to the hull at thestern 53, with the aim of increasing the direction thereof in theextension direction X.

Lastly, forming an object of the present invention is a floatingplatform 800, preferably substantially circular-shaped, releasablyconnectable to which is a plurality of sailboats 1 (according to any oneof the embodiments illustrated above), and/or multifunctional boards 1,2 (according to any one of the embodiments illustrated above).

According to a preferred embodiment of such floating platform 800, themain extension direction X of one or more hulls 22 is substantiallyparallel to a radial direction P of said platform. In other words, uponfixing a substantially circular-shaped central area or centre C of theplatform, the extension direction X of the hull 22 or of the pluralityof hulls will be substantially parallel to the radii passing at thecentre C of such platform 800.

According to an embodiment, the floating platform 800 comprises mooringmeans 802 for the releasable connection of the plurality of sailboats 50or of the multifunctional boards 1, 2 to the platform 800. Preferably,the mooring means 802 comprise at least one mooring ring fixed to theplatform.

According to another embodiment, the floating platform 800 comprisesgripping means 804 for gripping (and optionally for transporting), theplatform 800. Preferably, the gripping means 804 comprise one or moregrips or handles. For example, the gripping means 804 could be arrangedon an external circumference of the platform 800.

According to a further embodiment, the floating platform 800 comprisesmeans for anchoring the platform to a seabed. Preferably, the anchoringmeans comprise at least one rope or at least one chain fixed to theplatform 800 on the one side, and anchored to the seabed on the otherside.

According to possible modes of use of the floating platform 800according to the embodiments outlined above, such platform could be usedfor carrying out teaching activities; and/or activities for rentingboats 50 and/or multifunctional board 1, 2.

Lastly, with particular reference to FIG. 25, it should be observed thata so-called “human sailer” is based on the board helmed from a lyingdown position of the present invention, but in the absence of the boardin that the body of the steersman or user 51 serves that purpose.

In other words, in the embodiment of FIG. 25, the mast 54 and the sail55 are constrained to the body of the steersman or user 51, thus thelatter serving as a board or floater.

According to an embodiment, the steersman or user 51 is constrained tothe mast 54 by means of a belt 561, which tightens around the waistand/or abdomen of the helmsman/user.

Preferably, the bely 561 comprises a mast-holder plate 560 on which theheel of the mast rests. Hence, the mast-holder plate 560 serves as abase for the mast 54 and, according to an advantageous aspect, itprotects the body of the steersman/user against the mechanical stressesof the sail 55, transmitted to the body of the steersman 51 through theshaft 54.

According to another embodiment, the “human sailer” also comprises amain sheet 562 for the sail 55, constrained on one end to the sail andgrippable on the other end by the user 51 to direct the sail in thewind.

Innovatively, the present invention allows to achieve the pre-setobjectives.

Advantageously, the side of the hull opposite to the one where thesupport is connected remains free so as to allow the user to takeposition on the board easily, same case applying to allowing him/her toquickly release himself/herself if need be, for example should the boatcapsize in water.

Advantageously, thanks to the support according to an embodiment of thepresent invention, the sail can also be positioned in the central areaof the hull usually occupied by the body of the user.

Advantageously, the board subject of the present invention has theadvantage lying in the fact that it can be used in various water sportsactivities, even should such activities require supplementaryaccessories or equipment.

Advantageously, the board subject of the present invention has highstability in water, hence it can be used for water or underwater sports(even in the presence of specific accessories), for simple waterrelaxation activities, for rehabilitation activities (water therapy),for rescuing bathers.

Advantageously, the multifunctional board is provided with couplingswhich—through accessories or kits (seat 808, footrest, paddle or oar810, diver down flag 812 for scuba diving, and/or acquascope 806)—can betransformed into a board for different purposes (for example into akayak, into a floating mattress), where the stability andmanoeuvrability of such board guarantee good quality of navigation.

Advantageously, the multifunctional board subject of the presentinvention is configured in a manner such to allow the user thereof tomove it in water rowing with the hands.

Advantageously, the presence of one or more life belts with threeanchoring points allows to harness the person being rescued, it is notcumbersome, and it is always available.

The invention has been described by way of non-limiting example,according to some preferred embodiments. The man skilled in the art mayfind other numerous embodiments and variants, all falling within thescope of protection outlined by the claims that follow.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

-   1, 2 multifunctional board, multitasking board or board-   11, 22 hull-   12, 23 quickwork, submerged part of the hull, or lower surface-   13, 24 deadwork, dry portion of the hull, or upper surface-   14, 15 deck-   16 support element-   17 seat for housing the coupling portion-   18 seats for pins-   19 central area or part-   25 ansa lunata-   26 ansa lunata-   27 raised element-   28 pillow-   31, 32, 33, 34 fluid threads-   42 mast-hoder handlebar or brace-   42 a first portion of the brace-   42 b second portion of the brace-   45, 46 centre boards, vertical and longitudinal appendages, or fins-   45 a, 46 a slot or fissure-   50 sailboat-   51 person, helmsman, steersman or user-   52 bow-   53 stern-   54 mast-   55 sail-   56 mast-holder support or socket-   61, 62, 64, 66 element-   63, 65, 67 joining element-   68, 69 fixing means-   70 foot or lower edge of the sail-   71, 562 main sheet-   90 fixing device or means-   91 knob-   92 paddle-   93 tulip-like socket-   94 base element or support base-   110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115 closed elements-   125, 126, 127 fixing means-   221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226 closed elements-   230, 231, 232 fixing and adjustment means-   532 sail support structure-   534 sail manoeuvre bars-   540 support structure-   543 arm coupling portion-   550 hiking stick-   551 board of the hiking stick-   552 upper surface of the hiking stick-   553 inner edge of the hiking stick-   554 free end of the hiking stick-   555 pins-   556 lateral edges of the hiking stick-   557 fixing means-   560 mast-holder plate-   561 belt-   700 acquascope holder-   800 floating platform, floating island or floating atoll-   802 mooring means-   804 gripping means-   806 acquascope-   808 seat-   810 paddle or oar-   812 diver down flag-   814 life belt or harness-   a angle-   A-A section plane-   B-B section plane-   C centre of the platform-   D distance between the point of rotation and the upper surface of    the hull or the board-   M centre-line plane-   P radial direction-   R point of rotation-   X length-wise extension axis of the hull, or longitudinal extension    axis/direction, or (main) extension direction-   Y transversal extension direction, or smaller size of the hull-   Z rotation axis

1. A sailboat (50) comprising a multifunctional board and a sail; saidboard comprises a hull (22) which extends along a main extensiondirection (X) with a lower surface (23), designated to be partly orfully submerged in water, and an upper surface (24), suitable toaccommodate a helmsman (51) in a lying down position and having the headin proximity of the stern (53); said sail (55) is fully or partly fixedon a mast (54) along which the axis (Z) extends; characterised in thatsaid mast (54) is engaged in a support (56) directly fixed to the hull(22), and in that said hull (22) has—along the two edges thereof, whichextend along the axis (X)—an ansa lunata (25) and ansa lunata (26),respectively, each of which extends along the axis (Y).
 2. The sailboataccording to claim 1, wherein said support (56) allows said sail (55) torotate with respect to the hull (22).
 3. The sailboat according to claim1, wherein said helmsman (51) can navigate and manoeuvre the boat whilein a lying down position.
 4. The sailboat according to claim 1, whereinthe hull (22) comprises a support element (16) or raised element (27),with respect to the surface of the deck (15) of the hull (22) andpositioned in proximity of the stern (53) of the hull (22), preferablysaid support element (16) or raised element (27) obtaining at least onebackrest or a chaise longue for the helmsman (51).
 5. The sailboataccording to claim 1, wherein said support element (16) or raisedelement (27), preferably a pillow (28), allows the helmsman (51) to stayin a lying down or prone or supine position during the navigation andmanoeuvre, preferably said support element (16) or raised element (27)being made of a rigid material or at least partly by an inflatable airchamber.
 6. The sailboat according to claim 1, wherein said supportelement (16) or raised element (27) can be an integral part of the hull(22) and form a single element with the hull; or, alternatively, saidsupport element (16) or raised element (27) can be an element that canbe mounted, positioned and adjusted at will by means of special fixingand adjustment means (230, 231 e 232) located in proximity of the stern(53).
 7. The sailboat according to claim 1, wherein along the edge ofthe hull (22) or in positions adjacent thereto of the deck (15) of thehull (22), along the extension direction (X), there are present somegripping elements, closed or open, shaped like a closed or open handlefixed on the hull, to facilitate sailing, climbing on board, rescuingpeople, gripping if need be and safety in general.
 8. A multifunctionalboard or “multitasking” board comprising a hull (22) extending along amain extension direction (X) with a lower surface (23), designated to bepartly or fully submerged in water, and an upper surface (24), suitableto accommodate a helmsman (51), characterised in that said hull (22)has—along the two edges thereof, extending along the axis (X)—an ansalunata (25) and an ansa lunata (26), respectively, each of which extendsalong the axis (Y).
 9. The multifunctional board according to claim 8,wherein said hull (22) comprises a support element (16) or a raisedelement (27), with respect to the surface of the deck (15) of the hull(22), which is positioned in proximity of the stern (53) of the hull(22); said raised element, preferably a pillow (28), is an integral partof the hull (22) and forms a single element with the hull; or,alternatively, it can be an element that can be mounted, positioned andadjusted at will using special fixing and adjustment means (230, 231 and232) located in proximity of the stern (53), preferably said supportelement (16) or raised element (27) obtaining at least one backrest or achaise longue for the helmsman (51).
 10. The multifunctional boardaccording to claim 8, wherein along the edge of the hull (22) or inpositions adjacent thereto of the deck (15) of the hull (22), along theextension direction (X), there are present some gripping elements,closed or open, shaped like a closed or open handle fixed on the hull,to facilitate sailing, climbing on board, rescuing people, gripping ifneed be and safety in general.
 11. A sailboat (50) comprising: a hull(10) extending along an extension direction (X) with a lower surface(12), designated to be partly or fully submerged in water, and an uppersurface (13), suitable to accommodate at least the bust of a person in alying down position; a sail (30) rotatable with respect to the hull (10)around an axis (Z); a support (56), connected to the hull (10), suitableto support said sail (30); wherein said support (56) is shaped in amanner such to maintain the point of rotation (R) of the sail (30)raised with respect to the upper surface (13) of the hull so that thebust of the person can be housed between said upper surface (13) andsaid point of rotation (R) in the aforementioned lying down position.12. A method of using a sailboat (50) according to claim 1, comprising:sailing activities both in form of a constrained sail and windsup;activities with the use of a paddle such as stand up paddle (SUP) andkayak; as a game or hobby; for snorkelling activities, seabedexploration activities or underwater hunting activities; relaxactivities, like floating mattress; for rehabilitation activities inwater, for example for the disabled people or for mobility-challengedpeople; for underwater activities, for example as a support bridge forscuba divers; and/or sea or maritime rescue and patrol of water spaces.13. A floating platform or island (800), substantially circular-shaped,to which a plurality of sailboats (50) according to claim 1 arereleasably connected, wherein the main extension direction (X) of one ormore hulls (22) is substantially parallel to a radial direction (P) ofsaid platform.
 14. The floating platform according to claim 13,comprising: mooring means (802) for the releasable connection of theplurality of sailboats (50) or multifunctional boards to the platform(800); gripping means (804) for gripping, and optionally fortransporting, the platform (800); optional anchoring means of saidplatform (800) to a seabed.
 15. The floating platform, according toclaim 14, wherein: the mooring means (802) comprise at least one mooringring fixed to the platform; the gripping means (804) comprise one ormore grips or handles; and/or the anchoring means comprise at least onerope or at least one chain fixed—on one side—to the platform (800), andanchored—on the other side—to the seabed.
 16. A method of using afloating platform (800) according to claim 13 for carrying out: teachingactivities; and/or rental activities.